What a delight to swim in these thermal pools found scattered across the Northern Territory (and the rest of northern Australia)! We mentionned Katherine's Hot Springs a few days ago. This time, we are at the Bitter Springs in Mataranka. They are located in a beautiful environment on the edge of Elsey National Park, 100 kilometers south-east of Katherine. These spring-fed thermal pools are a great place to relax amongst palms and tropical woodlands, especially after a long drive. We even came accross a European couple riding their bikes around the world, who spent the night there. Still be carefull though. Swimming is not permitted during the wet season due to dangerous currents and increased risk of Saltwater Crocodiles.

Edith Falls (or Leliyn) are the second main attraction of Nitmiluk National Park along with the Katherine Gorge. These picturesque waterfalls flow into a massive plunge pool in which it is possible (and very pleasant) to swim. Be careful though because signs indicate the possible presence of freshwater crocodiles, considered less dangerous than saltwater crocodiles, in the late afternoon. This beautiful place is located on the west side of the Park, 40 kilometres north of Katherine on the Stuart Highway on the way to Darwin. Leliyn has a landscaped campground with unpowered sites.

During a stay in Darwin do not miss the opportunity to visit the world famous Katherine Gorge, located in the Nitmiluk National Park, 250 kilometres south of the capital city of the Northern Territory. This deep gorge, more than 20 million years old, offers a diverse and spectacular landscape, including cliffs over 70 metres high (photo). The most popular place to admire the surroundings is located directly on the Katherine River (cruises, canoeing, swimming). It is also possible to walk on one of the numerous walking tracks starting from Nitmiluk Centre to experience the gorge from above. Access to Katherine Gorge is via Katherine on a 30 kilometres sealed road northeast of the city. It is better to avoid visiting the park during the wet season (December to April). Due to flooding, access and activities are not necessarily available. The best time to visit the park is therefore between May and September.

The small town of Katherine is located 300 kilometers south of Darwin. It is well known to tourists because of its proximity to the Nitmiluk National Park, home of Katherine Gorge and Edith Falls. Katherine is also the birthplace of Cadel Evans, 2009 UCI Road World Champion and the first Australian to win the Tour de France in 2011. Many deny the existence of its Hot Springs (photo), however, they are a natural curiosity and certainly worth a stop in Northern Territory's fourth largest town. Beyond a natural swimming pool, it is a real jacuzzi. The crystal clear water in this spring has an average annual temperature of 32°C. The place is not necessarily well signposted. It lies between the Victoria Highway and the Katherine River about a kilometre south of the city centre. The enchanting landscape and the recent restructure of the area make it a really pleasant place. A must do!